The Hidden Truth Behind the Second Hole in 45 RPM Records
Have you noticed that some 45 RPM records have an additional hole? If you've encountered a 45 with a secondary hole, you're not alone. This article aims to uncover the mystery behind this lesser-known feature of these iconic records, drawing from personal experience and historical context.
The Evolution of Record Formats
Before diving into the purpose of the second hole, let's take a brief journey through the history of record formats. In the 1940s and 50s, 78 RPM records, featuring a 10-inch diameter, were the standard. These records could play a full movement of a symphony, but required manual changing to hear the entire work. By the 1950s, the development of the 12-inch Long Playing (LP) record, which rotated at 33 1/3 RPM, transformed the music industry. The LP format could accommodate an entire album of a dozen songs or even a complete classical symphony on one side.
The 45 RPM Record and Its Unique Features
The 45 RPM single, one song per side and 7 inches in diameter, became a staple in the 1970s and 80s. These records featured a large central hole, 1 1/2 inches in diameter, designed for stacking purposes and to fit into automatic turntables and jukeboxes. This format allowed DJs to easily cue up a single with one hand while reading news copy over the air. In contrast, the 78 RPM records, while larger and capable of playing longer tracks, required frequent switching.
The Second Hole: A Beacon for Authenticity
While the first hole in a 45 RPM record is a standard feature, some records have a second, smaller hole. This second hole serves a practical purpose, revealing an important fact about the record's origin. The second hole is often centered in the sticker label, indicating that the record was intended for promotional use at radio stations. Let's explore this further:
Historical Context and Radio Promotion
During the 1970s and 80s, record companies sent free promotional copies of their albums and singles to radio stations. The Music Director at these stations would audition these singles to determine which ones to play. Promotional LPs came in a cardboard sleeve with artwork and metadata, such as track listings and musician information. When distributed, the corner of the sleeve was usually cut off, typically the top right corner, to streamline the promotion process.
The Role of Promotional Copies
In an effort to manage costs, some record companies resorted to less expensive methods of marking promotional copies. Instead of affixing "Promotional Copy: Not for Resale" labels, they simply drilled a hole through the label section. This practice served the same purpose—signifying that the record was intended for promotional use and couldn't be sold to the public.
Identifying Promotional Copies
If you encounter a 45 RPM record with a second, 1/8-inch hole through the sticker label, it's a strong indicator that the record is a promotional copy. The edges may appear slightly ratty due to the hole, making it easy to identify. These records were often given away at remote broadcasts or kept for promotional purposes by DJs. It's worth noting that selling these records, even if intended for personal use, would be illegal if they bear the second hole.
Finding Authenticity in Vinyl Records
The presence of a second hole can be a valuable indicator of a record's authenticity. Whether you're a collector or a casual listener, recognizing this feature can enhance your understanding of vinyl records and the music industry. For collectors, identifying promotional copies can add an interesting historical context to your collection. For casual listeners, it can provide an insight into the promotional strategies of the music industry and the unique history of vinyl records.